Spring break is just around the corner, and it’s a perfect time for families to explore and make memories. But with travel costs, attractions and dining adding up fast, it’s easy to feel like you need to spend big to have fun. The great news is that around southwest Ohio, there are so many ways to make this spring break memorable without breaking the bank. From free parks and trails to budget-friendly eats, here’s your guide to affordable family fun right here at home.
Walk or Bike One of the Many Local Trails
Five Rivers MetroParks has many trails that vary in length, terrain and difficulty, making it easy to customize your walk to fit your interests and abilities. Or hop on the Little Miami Scenic Trail or Loveland Bike Trail, a paved, family-friendly path that winds along the river through charming towns — great for biking, skating, or walking.
Stroll Through a Botanical Garden
The Hauck Botanic Gardens is an 8-acre oasis with seasonal blooms and shaded paths, perfect for a peaceful nature stroll. Best of all, it’s free!
Play at a Fun Outdoor Park
Enjoy the spring weather at a fun park, like Kingswood Park in Deerfield Township, with a huge playground, walking paths, and wide open fields for play. West Fork Park in Green Township is known for its colorful and inclusive playground and is a family favorite. Home of the Brave Park in Mason has a must-visit playground, splash pad, sports fields, and a tribute to local veterans. Don’t forget the many other city parks around Cincinnati and Dayton, each with playgrounds, trails and plenty of space for active fun — all at zero cost.
Play at a Fun Indoor Playspace
Burn off some spring break energy at a free indoor play space. Graeter’s Lil’ Pints Playroom at select Ohio stores include a soft play area for little ice-cream-powered explorers. The Dungeon at King Arthur’s Court has a zip line, an archery practice room, climbing toys, playhouses, and so much more. Or for free or low-cost activities like open gym time, games and seasonal celebrations, pop into Over-the-Rhine Recreation Center in Cincy.
Get Some Steps In
Be a tourist in your own town by visiting the Historic Steps of Cincinnati. Climb one of the city’s 400+ sets of historic steps for a dose of history, exercise and incredible views.
Visit an Art Museum or Gallery
Check out one of the free museums around town! The Cincinnati Art Museum is a gem that is always free and offers a mix of permanent collections, rotating exhibits, and hands-on activities for kids. The Cardboard Boat Museum in New Richmond is a quirky museum that celebrates the art and sport of cardboard boat racing. Plus, many smaller galleries host free art walks and gallery spaces on the first Friday of the month, where families can wander, ask questions and enjoy local talent.
Try a Library Program
Check out your local Cincinnati Public Library or Dayton Metro Library branch for spring break activities, which can range from animal encounters to craft sessions to pajama storytime. This programming at the library is free and designed for kids of all ages.
Budget-Friendly Dining Around Town
Eating out doesn’t have to drain your wallet during spring break. Some restaurants offer deals that make family meals much more affordable. (Just be sure to call ahead or check current promotions, as deals can change.)
- Fricker’s: Kids 10 and under eat free at Fricker’s with the purchase of an adult meal and kid’s beverage.
- Frisch’s Big Boy: Enjoy one free kids meal (10 & under) per adult meal every Monday.
- IKEA: Free kids meal with adult purchase all day on Wednesdays.
Community Resources That Help Stretch Your Spring Break Dollars
- Visit the Southwest Ohio Parent event calendar at ohparent.com, and check out our guide, Free Things to Do This Month, to find up-to-date listings of free or low-cost events happening around town during spring break.
- With the Discovery Pass Program, anyone with a Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library card can reserve Discovery Passes for free admission to local favorites like the American Sign Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center, Great Parks, Taft Museum of Art, and more.
Spring break doesn’t always mean a long road trip or flying to a far-off destination. With a little planning and creativity, you can fill your week with lots of local fun without spending a lot.
